Senegal is gearing up for a crucial presidential election set to take place on Sunday, amidst heightened political tensions and uncertainty. President Macky Sall's failed attempt to postpone the election sparked violent protests, leading to a contentious atmosphere in the lead-up to the polls.
The release of top opposition leader Ousmane Sonko from prison last week has injected renewed excitement into the electoral race, with jubilant celebrations erupting in Dakar. This election marks Senegal's fourth democratic transfer of power since gaining independence from France in 1960, underscoring the country's reputation as a stable democracy in a region plagued by political instability.
Rights groups have accused Sall's government of repressing the media, civil society, and the opposition, with nearly 1,000 opposition members and activists reportedly arrested in the past three years. Despite these challenges, Sall has denied allegations of attempting to cling to power.
With a record-high of 19 candidates vying for the presidency, including former prime ministers and prominent opposition figures, a runoff between leading contenders is widely anticipated. Unemployment remains a pressing concern for many young Senegalese, with approximately half of the country's 17 million population under the age of 18.
Analysts highlight that breaking out of poverty is a paramount issue for Senegal, where about a third of the population lives in poverty according to World Bank data. Economic opportunities are a driving force behind the migration of thousands of Senegalese towards the West in search of a better livelihood.
As the election approaches, former prime minister Amadou Ba and candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye, supported by Sonko, are seen as frontrunners. The disqualification of Sonko from the ballot earlier this year due to legal issues has sparked controversy, with his supporters alleging government interference.
Despite past unrest and concerns over a potential third term bid by Sall, the political landscape has somewhat stabilized in the run-up to the election. Observers are cautiously optimistic about a peaceful voting process on Sunday, following recent efforts to ease tensions and ensure a smooth electoral process.
Senegal's democratic journey faces a critical juncture as the nation prepares to choose its next leader, with the outcome poised to shape the country's future trajectory.
